With over 650,000 Instagram followers, Dwyer became a positive force for those looking to make positive lifestyle changes, and he was a man who led from the front. Hailing from Limerick, Ireland, the big man became known as the “Limerick Lion” as he gained a reputation as a dominant figure in strength sports.
In addition to his achievements in Ireland, O’Dwyer became only the second Irishman in history to work with the UK’s Strongest Man and was a regular on the Giants Live circuit, whose company director was one of the first to pay tribute. “The outpouring of love from the Power Family since we learned of Dad’s death on Saturday has been humbling and overwhelming – but also not a surprise,” Darren Sadler said via an official statement. “Pa O’Dwyer was a fearsome athlete, a fearless competitor and a gentleman. The tributes from his fellow strongmen, the people he competed fiercely with but supported every step of the way, are heartbreaking for all of us to read. And what is most evident – as it was to all who met him – was his devotion to his family above all others. His love for Layna was stronger than anything he faced in battle, as was the devotion to his children, Sienna, Rocco and Freddy.”
Tributes are pouring in for Patrick ‘Pa’ O’Dwyer
Former World’s Strongest Man Eddie Hall was quick to share his emotions after losing an important friend. “Dad brought strength, laughter and warmth wherever he went,” he responded via Instagram. “He was truly one of life’s greatest characters and anyone who ever met him would have a story to tell, I’m sure.” Hall has set up a GoFundMe campaign with permission from the O’Dwyer family to raise money to support his memorial service and the wife and three children he now leaves behind. “Dad leaves behind three children and an entire family who loved and adored him, leaving a huge hole emotionally and practically,” The Beast explains. “So let’s help with the practical part, because that’s all we can do right now.”
Three-time World’s Strongest Man Tom Stoltman wrote that O’Dwyer was a “best friend in sports. What an incredible guy. Rest in Peace Dad.” while Australian strongman Eddie Joe Williams wrote; “Gonna miss you bro! Comps won’t be the same!”
About three months ago, O’Dwyer said he set himself the challenge of “getting absolutely ripped” for his 40th birthday and found himself looking incredibly thin as he appeared to make the transition from strongman to a bodybuilding competition. Sadly, we will never see the force he could have been on the bodybuilding stage.
Rest in peace, sir.
If you would like to support the O’Dwyer family at this difficult time, click here for the GoFundMe pagewhich has already collected $208,000 / £155,000.
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